Surrounded by modern conveniences that simplify life in the developed world, it’s easy to forget that for millions of disadvantaged children in less developed regions merely surviving can be a challenge. To make a difference, international volunteers and interns, with the help of CrossContinental.org, recently traveled abroad to support humanitarian projects aiding underprivileged kids including disabled, orphaned, and HIV infected children.

As shown in the attached video (http://youtu.be/9cAJpTNz780), recent volunteers showcase and report their first hand experience as they participate in international internships and volunteer abroad programs helping children in need. Experience the harsh realities of everyday life for those who need help most, and put a face on the problems confronting many of the world’s children.

On a recent expedition to Nepal, Denmark native Siv Bay Petersen experienced the rewards of volunteering with disabled children over a three-month period. She found herself both humbled and inspired by those she came to assist. Siv shares, “They have so many troubles, both physically and mentally, but still they just smile, dance, laugh, and fight to learn new stuff. They embrace new people with all their heart. The feeling when the children rush forward to give you a big hug is just amazing!”

Volunteer abroad programs offer the advantage of experiencing other cultures first hand instead of merely traveling as a tourist. “I have been really, really happy!” Siv reports, “You get to see the country differently than if you were just a ‘tourist’; you get the opportunity to learn about the culture, the people and their lives.”

Siv was very impressed by the volunteer organization she selected and would definitely recommend their programs to others. “When you choose to volunteer through Cross-Continental, you can be sure that you’ll get all the support you need, throughout your stay. You get a local coordinator, who is keeping an eye on you, without interfering too much.”
Even teenagers who are interested in making a difference are welcome at Cross-Continental Solutions. 16-year-old Jane Noah, an American 10th grade student from Thornapple Kellogg High School, spent some time overseas working at an orphanage in Cape Coast, Ghana. Jane said, “I was more than happy with the quality of help and service that I received from my local coordinator, host family and everyone else who assisted me throughout the process. There is nothing that I can think of that could have been done better to improve my experience.”

Jane was greatly impressed by the incredibly affordable fees and constant support provided by Cross-Continental. She highlights the benefits of the host family arrangement as it surrounds the volunteer in a new culture and encourages close friendships, while allowing one to sample local cuisine.

“Going to Africa has been something that I’ve wanted to do for a long time, and Cross-Continental made it possible! The work was so fulfilling. The most rewarding experience of my volunteer abroad program was getting to see the beautiful smiles on the orphans’ faces everyday and making connections with the children.”

American volunteer Hannah Bemis, who is a recent graduate from North Florida Community College, cared for HIV infected orphans in Ecuador. She echoes the sentiment shared by many volunteers working with such unfortunate children. “Some of the toddlers would come by my room after dinner and ask me to accompany them up to bed. I found it painfully adorable.”

Hannah continues, “I first chose to volunteer abroad on a whim. It was probably not the smartest thing to do on a whim, but Cross-Continental Solutions made it the best decision I’ve done thus far. The cost of living abroad via Cross-Continental Solutions was much cheaper than what I would have been paying for rent and it included meals and support.”

While at times the hardships suffered by the orphaned and abandoned children of the developing world seem insurmountable, volunteers like Siv, Jane, and Hannah are having a meaningful impact on these children’s lives. The smiles on the happy children’s faces serve as rewards in themselves and provide volunteers with unimaginable joy and satisfaction. Access free resources or plan a life-changing trip at http://www.CrossContinental.org.

About Cross-Continental Solutions:

Cross-Continental Solutions provides unique yet affordable intern abroad, volunteer abroad, cultural immersion, language study, and gap year programs. By living and working side by side with local people, participants gain an exceptional cross-cultural experience and the opportunity to make a difference. Covering a wide range of needs, opportunities are available in areas such as: Teaching, Healthcare, HIV work, Care-giving, Orphanage Work, Wildlife, Agriculture, Environmental Protection, Community Development, Business Coaching, Microfinance, Marketing, Journalism, Photography, Tourism, and more. Programs are available at many locations around the world, including Africa, Asia, and Latin America.